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US President Donald Trump has announced a ban on three major news outlets — CNN, MS NOW and Politico — from the White House, accusing them of repeatedly publishing what he called “fake news”.
Trump made the announcement in a post on Truth Social on Friday, saying the ban was effective immediately. He accused the outlets of reporting “fiction and lies” about his administration and indicated that other media organisations could also face similar restrictions.
Asked about the decision in the Oval Office, Trump said it was based on what he described as the outlets’ “cumulative” coverage over the past several years. He did not identify a specific report that prompted the action.
The practical scope of the ban was initially unclear. Reporters from the three organisations were still working at the White House after Trump’s announcement, with their access apparently not immediately revoked.
CNN said it stood behind its White House team and its “fair and accurate reporting”, arguing that the US Constitution protects its right to report without government interference. Politico also said it would defend its First Amendment rights.
The announcement is expected to face legal challenges over the First Amendment, which protects freedom of speech and freedom of the press.
The White House has previously faced legal disputes over restrictions on journalists’ access.
Trump has also indicated that additional news organisations could be targeted.
